Tag Archives | animal welfare

Deadly Amphibian Fungus Plagues Frogs

May 17, 2013

(ANIMAL SCIENCE) Beware, frogs! The chytrid fungus is out there! The lethal fungus, which seems to only harm amphibians, causes a thickening of the infected creature’s skin and hinders the animal’s breathing and electrolyte balance. Ultimately, the infection can lead to cardiac arrest and has already caused several Central American frog species to go extinct. One scientist even referred to the destructive fungus as “the single biggest threat to vertebrate diversity in the world.” Continue reading for more on the chytrid fungus and the study behind this amphibian epidemic. — Global Animal

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Swine Flu Strikes Seals

May 16, 2013

(ANIMAL SCIENCE) The swine flu virus has been found in elephant seals off the central coast of California, according to a recent study. The research is the first to report the H1N1 virus in marine mammals, which shows influenza viruses can be transferred among species. During the study, scientists encountered two northern elephant seals who were infected, and they discovered an additional 28 seals carrying swine flu antibodies. Keep reading for more information on the highly contagious virus and this enlightening study. — Global Animal

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Museum “Un-Coops” Chicken

May 16, 2013

(FARM ANIMALS) LOS ANGELES – The National Museum of Animals & Society (NMAS) has just launched an online exhibit entitled “Un-Cooped: Deconstructing the Domesticated Chicken.” The one-of-a-kind display, which features a variety of media from 16 artists, challenges the way people perceive the often overlooked chicken. “Un-Cooped” sheds light on how poorly chickens are treated and introduces them as unique individuals. Continue reading for more on the domesticated fowl of the hour and this groundbreaking exhibit. — Global Animal

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From Kitty With Love: The CIA’s Spy Creation

May 15, 2013

(ANIMAL SCIENCE) In the 1960s, the CIA attempted to turn a cat into a spy during an effort entitled, “Operation Acoustic Kitty.” The agency attempted to turn the feline into a CIA agent by implanting a microphone, small radio transmitter, and a thin wire antenna into the cat during a risky surgery. The cat survived and was sent to a park to observe a conversation between two people on a bench. Unfortunately, the cat was hit by a taxi and did not survive the actual mission. While there are definitely some questions of animal cruelty within the discussion, it is quite interesting to learn about animals embarking on top-secret missions. Continue reading below to discover more about these animal spies. — Global Animal

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Would You Pick A “Furnished” Jail Cell Over Freedom? (VIDEO)

May 13, 2013

(ANIMAL WELFARE) Due to strong public outrage, hen cages were expected to be a thing of the past by now as most people realize how awful and debilitating the condition of a cramped metal cage can be for these poor chickens who are forced to spend their entire lives in captivity. But instead of listening to their consumers, the chicken/egg industries are pushing legislation that would allow “furnished” cages. PETA writes, “the United Egg Producers industry is pushing federal legislation that would trade one cruel metal cage for another, and their bill could never be challenged or changed by state law or public vote…Misleadingly named ‘furnished’ cages can house as many as 60 birds.” Many animal welfare groups are settling for this compromise arguing that a bigger cage is better than a small cage. Unfortunately, even though the dimensions of the metal cell may change, the cramped, claustrophobic conditions of being housed with too many other chickens remains the same. Watch the video below for more information and find out how you can get involved. — Global Animal

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Is Your Lawn Hurting Your Dog?

May 13, 2013

(PET CARE) Exposure to lawn and garden chemicals has been linked to bladder cancer in dogs, according to a new study. Common herbicides are the culprits, and pet guardians need to consider when and how they treat their lawns. Certain breeds, including beagles and Scottish terriers, are at particular risk because of their high genetic propensity for bladder cancer, yet all dogs are still susceptible. Researchers also discovered that canines contaminated by the chemicals can potentially transfer them to their guardians. Continue reading for more on the new study and for tips on pet-friendly lawn care. — Global Animal

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Meat-Free Monday: Spring Fever

May 13, 2013

(VEGAN) Have no fear; spring is here! And so is this refreshing vegan salad recipe made with marinated tofu, watermelon, and basil. Yum! So tantalize your taste buds today with this sensational spring recipe! — Global Animal

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Does Your Dog Need A New Do?

May 11, 2013

(PET CARE) While pets may not need to bathe as much as we do, it is important for animals to be groomed regularly. Here are some tips from the Humane Society on how to decide when your pet needs to be professionally groomed, and how to find a good groomer. — Global Animal

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